One of Australia's most classic guitar riffs, dreamt up by kids who were too young to play at pub gigs.

Rock quartet God was formed in Melbourne in 1986 by Sean Greenway, Tim Hemensley, Joel Silbersher, and Matthew Whittle, all 15-16 at the time. This recording of their debut single 'My Pal' showcases what made the track such a punk rock banger: frenetic energy, underground influences and vulnerable lyrics. Joel's anguished vocals as he shouts 'You’re my only friend / You don't even like me!' and the anxious, circular cry of the guitar captures the raw youthful force that powered the band.

Released in January 1988 by Au Go Go Records, the song was the third-highest-selling alternative single that year. The band's last gig was on 30 July 1989. Several artists subsequently covered ‘My Pal’, including Magic Dirt and Violent Soho. The track has also featured in the TV series Underbelly and the 2012 television film, Underground: The Julian Assange Story.